Endoscopic Procedures

In a hysteroscopy, doctors use a thin viewing device to allow a doctor to view inside the uterus. It usually takes about 10 minutes, unless other procedures are done at the same time. The procedure allows a doctor to find and treat many problems. This includes removing small fibroids or polyps, stop abnormal bleeding, or remove a blockage in the fallopian tubes. If there are problem areas in the endometrial lining of the uterus, the doctor can also remove them.

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is another type of endoscopic procedure. In this procedure, doctors use a small tube called a laparoscope to view the outside of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Laparoscopy takes about 30 to 90 minutes, but like a hysteroscopy, can take longer if other procedures are performed at the same time. It is usually done under general anesthesia and most women return home the same day.

Laparoscopy is used for a number of reasons, including:

Determining if there is a blockage in the fallopian tubes

Evaluating if a patient has endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.

Evaluation of the possible causes of pelvic pain

Diagnosis and removal of ovarian cysts and fibroids

Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is used to remove a woman’s uterus. There are many reasons a woman and her doctor might determine that a hysterectomy is the best course of treatment. Common reasons for hysterectomy include:

Uterine fibroids

Uterine prolapse

Severe vaginal bleeding

Endometriosis

Chronic pelvic pain

Uterine and cervical cancer

Hysterectomy can be performed in a number of ways:

Abdominal hysterectomy, which uses an incision in the abdomen to open the pelvic cavity and remove the uterus

Vaginal hysterectomy, which avoids the need for an abdominal incision

Laparoscopic hysterectomy, which uses a small telescope and three small ports in the abdomen to remove the uterus without the need for a large incision. This helps to minimize the pain, hospital stay, and allows for a speedy recovery.

Who Should Consider Laparoscopic Hysterectomy?

Nearly all women are good candidates for laparoscopic hysterectomy. Due to the steep learning curve for the procedure, it is essential the procedure be performed by highly trained and skilled surgeons, which our facility is proud to be able to provide.

What are the Benefits of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy?

Laparoscopic hysterectomy incisions are smallerand so less painful than other options. The woman is able to go home same day or next day and is able to go back to work sooner. Traditional hysterectomy surgery requires a recovery period of at least four to six weeks. The recovery period is also more painful.

Because a large incision is made during the abdominal hysterectomy, there is a greater risk for infection and other complications. This risk is reduced when the procedure is performed laparoscopically.

What are the Risks of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy?

Though the risks associated with laparoscopic hysterectomy are significantly less than those of an abdominal hysterectomy, there are still some involved. The most common complications include blood loss, infection, and damage to other internal organs.

Is LaparoscopyRight for You?

If you have been diagnosed with a condition or illness that affects the inside of your uterus, laparoscopy might be right for you. It is less invasive, less risky, and requires less recovery time than other more invasive procedures.

Is Hysteroscopy Right for You?

If there are abnormalities related to the outside of your uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, a hysteroscopy can be used to diagnose and treat those issues.

If you would like to learn more or you want to speak with someone about the specific details of your circumstances, contact us to schedule an appointment.